Apple Cider Cookies Recipe
Introduction
These Apple Cider Cookies bring a delightful burst of autumn flavors to your kitchen. Soft, spiced, and studded with sweet apples, they’re perfect for cozy afternoons or holiday gatherings.

Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup apple cider
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup diced apples
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 1–2 tbsp apple cider (for glaze)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Cream the softened butter with the brown and granulated sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Step 3: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and apple cider until the batter is smooth.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Step 6: Gently fold in the diced apples using a spatula to distribute them evenly throughout the dough.
- Step 7: Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are golden.
- Step 8: Allow the cookies to cool completely. Mix powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons of apple cider to create a glaze, then drizzle over the cooled cookies.
Tips & Variations
- Use tart apple varieties like Granny Smith for a nice contrast to the sweetness.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
- For a nutty twist, add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Adjust the glaze thickness by adding more apple cider for a thinner drizzle or less for a thicker glaze.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat briefly in the microwave for a soft, warm treat.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I substitute apple cider vinegar for apple cider in this recipe?
No, apple cider vinegar is more acidic and will change the flavor and texture. Stick with apple cider to keep the sweet, fruity taste.
How do I keep the diced apples from making the cookies soggy?
Use firm apples and ensure they are diced small. Folding them gently into the dough helps maintain texture without releasing too much juice.
Print
Apple Cider Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
These soft and flavorful Apple Cider Cookies are a delightful blend of warm spices, tender diced apples, and a sweet apple cider glaze, perfect for autumn or any time you crave a cozy treat. The cookies are moist and lightly spiced, with a buttery base and a fruity hint from fresh apples and cider.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup apple cider
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup diced apples
Glaze
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp apple cider
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps aerate the dough for a tender cookie.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup apple cider until the batter becomes smooth and well combined, infusing the dough with moisture and flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and spices throughout the dough.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined to avoid over-mixing which can make cookies tough.
- Fold in Apples: Gently fold the diced apples into the dough using a spatula to incorporate them evenly without breaking down the pieces.
- Scoop and Bake: Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing the cookies adequately. Bake them for 10–12 minutes until they are golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
- Cool and Glaze: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with 1 to 2 tablespoons of apple cider until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled cookies for a sweet, tangy finish.
Notes
- Use firm, crisp apples like Granny Smith for the best texture in the cookies.
- If you prefer a stronger apple cider flavor, you can soak the diced apples in a bit of cider before mixing into the dough.
- Ensure butter is softened but not melted to achieve the perfect dough consistency.
- You can adjust the glaze consistency by adding more cider for a thinner drizzle or more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days; glaze is best applied just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: apple cider cookies, apple cookies, fall cookies, cinnamon cookies, soft cookies, spiced cookies

